(NC)—A research poll recently revealed that only seven percent of Canadians understand the important distinction between a complete whole grain product and a grain product*. Even though Canada's Food Guide to Healthy Eating recommends five to twelve servings from the grain group each day - clearly emphasizing whole grains - most of us aren't making the wisest of food choices! To help you boost your intake, registered dietitian Rosie Schwartz offers the following whole grain information and advice.

Whole grains consist of all three parts of a grain, including: the fibre-rich outer coating of bran; the middle layer of the grain called the endosperm; and, the nutrient-packed inner germ. During the milling or refining process, both the bran and germ Uncovering The Whole Truth About Whole Grains Recipe

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Holiday Entertaining 101

by News Canada

(NC)—The holiday season is the time of year filled with entertaining, parties and social gatherings. Whether planning a small, intimate gathering or a large family affair, it is often the host's attention to detail that impresses guests the most. Creating a festive atmosphere, planning ahead and preparing delicious dishes will ensure guests have a memorable experience. This holiday season, follow these simple tips, guaranteed to delight visitors and simplify holiday entertaining.

Create Atmosphere

• Limit the size of the gathering, consider several intimate parties rather than a large open house

• Add distinctive touches that guests will remember. Creative centre pieces, colourful drinks, special serving dishes and bright napkins will al Holiday Entertaining 101 Recipe

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Bananas: All That Potassium And Carmen Miranda Too!

by Marjorie Dorfman

Bananas: All That Potassium And Carmen Miranda Too!

"…We have old-fashioned tomahto, Long Island potahto, but Yes, we have no bananas. We have no bananas today.."- Folk song by Frank Silver and Irving Cohen (1923)

Whether you are off to Rio following the colorful trail of Carmen Miranda’s fruit-filled hat or seated on your couch contemplating the universe, the banana can always come along for the ride. There are so many aspects to this strange and wonderful fruit. Even its shape is a bit mysterious; conjuring images of tropical islands and sun-filled days. Did you know that the word "banana" originates from the Arabic and means finger? Doesn’t that make you wonder where the rest of the hand is? I have been hooked on bananas ever since Bananas: All That Potassium And Carmen Miranda Too! Recipe

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